City council moves forward with controversial annexation plans

During a recent city council meeting, officials discussed the ongoing process of annexation in the municipality, highlighting the city's authority under the Illinois municipal code to annex areas that are surrounded and less than 60 acres in size. Currently, the city has identified 53 such areas, with the council approving all but three: those on Moffett Avenue, Sunset Avenue, and Grove Road.

The city has also extended water mains beyond its limits, responding to requests from residents seeking reliable water access. Property owners who connect to city water must enter into an agreement requiring them to annex their property within 90 days of becoming contiguous to the city. Since the city resumed annexations in 2019, approximately 60% of the 763 agreements in place have been executed, although the process can be slow as property owners deliberate on their decisions.

The council noted that most annexations are concentrated on the west side of the city, with ongoing efforts in areas like Ash Cooper, Boiling Springs, and Sunnyside Wilcox. The city can only annex properties that have signed agreements, which are primarily related to water services. The council emphasized that the annexation process has been in place for five years and is designed to move as quickly as possible.

A discussion arose regarding the potential for property owners to request extensions if they wish to explore alternative water sources, such as wells or septic systems. However, city officials indicated that this situation has rarely occurred, as most residents are already connected to city services.

The meeting concluded with a reminder that the deadline for voluntary annexation agreements for the Deer Run subdivision is approaching, with water services potentially being shut off if agreements are not signed by September 3. The council expressed satisfaction with the progress made in annexations since 2019 and reiterated their commitment to facilitating the process for residents.